University of San Diego

What you'll study

This programme blends foundational courses in biology, chemistry and statistics with specialised modules that explore how physical, chemical and biological factors in the environment affect human health. Teaching methods typically include lectures, laboratory work, field studies and a research or capstone project.

• Core science courses: general biology, general and organic chemistry, environmental chemistry and biostatistics to provide the analytical skills used in exposure assessment and laboratory analyses.
• Environmental health fundamentals: introductory environmental health, toxicology, epidemiology and exposure assessment to understand how contaminants and pathogens impact populations.
• Applied and technical skills: environmental sampling and laboratory techniques, geographic information systems (GIS), risk assessment, occupational health and industrial hygiene principles.
• Policy, law and ethics: environmental policy, regulatory compliance, public-health law and the ethical dimensions of environmental decision-making.
• Research and experiential learning: a practicum or internship with local public health agencies, NGOs or private-sector employers, plus a senior research project or capstone integrating classroom learning with real-world problems.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: courses in sustainability, ecology, urban environmental planning, climate science and communication to broaden perspectives and career flexibility.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have completed secondary education with a strong emphasis on laboratory science and mathematics. Typical preparatory subjects include biology, chemistry and algebra or precalculus. USD considers applicants holistically, so academic record is considered alongside personal statement, recommendation letters and relevant extracurricular or work experience.

• Secondary school completion or equivalent with competitive grades in science and maths subjects.
• Recommended preparatory coursework: biology and chemistry (laboratory-based), plus mathematics; additional preparation in physics or statistics is advantageous.
• Application materials: personal statement or essay, academic transcripts and at least one academic or professional letter of recommendation.
• Transfer applicants: college transcripts demonstrating success in relevant coursework and a clear plan for degree completion.
• Standardised tests may be optional; check the university’s current admissions guidance for test policies and any additional programme-specific requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in Environmental Health move into a range of roles that protect public health and ensure regulatory compliance. The programme’s mix of laboratory, field and policy training supports employment across the public, private and non-profit sectors.

• Environmental health specialist or inspector in local and state public-health departments and regulatory agencies.
• Industrial hygienist or occupational health technician (additional professional certification or graduate study may be required for some roles).
• Environmental consultant working on contamination assessment, remediation planning and compliance.
• Positions in water and wastewater management, food safety, air quality monitoring and hazardous-waste management.
• Research assistant roles in academic or government laboratories, and progression to graduate study (MPH, MSc or related professional degrees) for careers in epidemiology, toxicology or environmental policy.

Why study at University of San Diego

The University of San Diego offers a liberal-arts–focused education with small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, encouraging interdisciplinary approaches to environmental health issues. Its location provides access to a wide range of local practicum and internship opportunities with public-health agencies, environmental organisations and industry partners in the San Diego region.

• Emphasis on hands-on learning through laboratory classes, fieldwork and community-engaged internships that connect classroom theory to applied practice.
• Interdisciplinary curriculum that draws on biology, chemistry, public health and policy, allowing students to tailor their studies to science, regulation or community health interests.
• Support for undergraduate research and senior capstone projects under faculty supervision, useful preparation for employment or graduate study.
• A campus culture that highlights ethical leadership and social responsibility, aligning environmental health practice with community well-being and sustainability.